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Article published 16/07/2024

Shortlists announced

Today (16 July), the shortlists for the Scottish Thistle Awards have been announced for the Central & East and West of Scotland regional finals.

Shortlists have also been revealed for the Highland and Islands Tourism Awards (HITA), Aberdeen City & Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards.

The Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsor Johnstons of Elgin, mark an important celebration of the best of our tourism and events industry, recognising the businesses and individuals who work hard to create the warm destination and visitor experiences that Scotland is famous for. They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors.

Congratulations to all of the businesses, events and individuals in the running to win a coveted award and join the prestigious roll of honour. 

Regional Scottish Thistle Award trophies. Credit: Connor Mollison

About the 2024 Scottish Thistle Awards

There are a total of 15 regional categories in this year’s programme, celebrating the very best of Scotland’s people, accommodation sector, food and drink, outdoor experiences and visitor attractions. The regional award ceremonies will take place in September and October before the regional winners go through to battle it out for a national accolade at the national final in November. 

The regional awards programme also includes the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards. 

This year’s sponsors of the Scottish Thistle Awards include headline sponsor, Johnstons of Elgin, and Fishers, The Macallan Estate, STV, Abbey UK, Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises and HIT Scotland for the new Rising Star category. 

 

The awards champion innovation, collaboration and sustainable practices, in line with the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, Outlook 2030.    

Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field.

Entrants to all categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.  

For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards have celebrated the very best of Scotland’s tourism and events sector. Starting with just six categories in 1992, the awards now boast eighteen categories and more than 400 past winners.

Winning a Thistle Award is a testament to excellence in the industry, allowing recipients to join a prestigious roll of honour. It not only raises their profile but also boosts staff morale and acknowledges their remarkable achievements.

Advancing to the regional finals signifies that these businesses, events, and individuals are among the finest in the country, demonstrating their commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.

On behalf of the panel, I extend heartfelt congratulations to all regional finalists and wish them the very best of luck at the regional finals and beyond.

Steven Walker, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards industry panel

When are the regional finals?

  • West of Scotland Thistle Awards

    Thursday 19 September 2024 

    Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow

  • Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards

    Friday 20 September 2024

    The Chester Hotel, Aberdeen

  • Central and East Thistle Awards

    Thursday 26 September 2024

    Sheraton Grand Hotel, Edinburgh

  • South of Scotland Thistle Awards

    Thursday 3 October 

    Peebles Hydro, Scottish Borders

  • Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards

    Friday 4 October 2024

    Kingsmill Hotel, Inverness

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